Loughgall started their Bob Radcliffe Cup defence with a comfortable win over Mid-Ulster Intermediate A side Camlough Rovers.
A poor first period resulted in little clear chances for both sides as they were limited to long-range efforts. However the Villagers did score in the first half when, on 31 minutes, left-back Stuart Mallen fired low into the bottom corner from the edge of the penalty area.
Mallen was involved in Loughgall’s second goal on the hour mark when his pinpoint cross was directed home by Marcus Dallas for his second goal in three games.
Winger Jamie Rea went close twice with headed efforts soon after; firstly he headed Dallas’ cross straight at ‘keeper Darren O’Grady. And then, from Wilson Taveres’ cross, he glanced against the post.
The hosts extended their advantage in the 78th minute when a free-kick routine resulted in Rea’s effort being stroked home by Ricky Copeland from close range.
Substitute Daniel Ryan netted an injury time goal after displaying great feet on the edge of the penalty area to work space to fire home a wonderful individual goal.
Loughgall: Buchanan, Taveres, Mallen, Copeland, Walsh, Henderson (Wilson 74m), Ferguson (Ryan 64m), Dallas, McMahon, Mullen (Boyle 67m), Rea.
Camlough Rovers: O’Grady, Murphy, Magill, Moan, G McCabe, Loughran, McDonald (Mee 67m), O’Hanlon, D McCabe, Hughes, Massey. Unused subs: McKeown, Mooney, Kane.
